Foldable faucet assembly

ABSTRACT

A faucet assembly constructed with a plug and socket arrangement, suitable for use in a bathtub, shower, or basin. The plug may be a ball or cylinder and the socket may be spherical receptacle or a drum. The spout is configured to rotate out of the way when struck by a falling or moving object. A diverter channel may be provided to redirect water flow from the faucet spout to a shower head when the spout is rotated away from a tub filling position.

FIELD

This invention relates to the field of faucets for water delivery. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to faucets configured to provideprotection from injury as the result of abrupt descent upon the faucetdue to slips, trips, falls or other accidents.

BACKGROUND

Bathtubs, showers, basins and their plumbing fixtures are commonfeatures in homes, schools, sports facilities, clubs and similarestablishments. Often bathtubs are combined with a shower create adual-use shower system for showers and baths. It is widely recognizedthat many injuries result from falling while taking a shower or bath.These injuries may range from inconsequential to life-threatening. Manyprecautions are sometimes undertaken to reduce the risk of falling, suchas creating a no-slip surface or installing hand rails. Despite theseefforts, bathtub injuries remain a serious concern. Small children mayalso fall while bathing. They often stand up while playing in thebathtub. This increases their risk of falling and injuring themselves.

A faucet configuration typically incorporates a metal spout that jutsfrom the wall of the bathtub, shower, or basin. Due to its protrudingnature, this metal spout is a major safety concern for all users whetherthey are washing, showering, or bathing. Any fall by a user or abruptdescent of a the head, torso or a limb that collides with this metalspout will almost certainly cause injury.

In dual-use systems that contain both shower and bath, there issometimes a diverter valve that is used to change the flow of waterbetween the spout and the shower head. This is often accessed by a valveavailable to the user. This valve head typically protrudes from the wallor from the spout itself and, like the spout, the valve head is also asafety concern in certain implementations.

What is needed therefore is an improved configuration of a faucetassembly that better protects users from injuries due to collisions withthe faucet or diverter valve head.

SUMMARY

With regard to the above, in one if its embodiments the inventionprovides a faucet assembly for installation on a substantially verticalsurface. The faucet assembly includes a socket having (a) a wall, (b) acup formed at least in part by the wall, (c) a socket inlet bore havinga first end configured for attachment to a water source and a second endthat terminates in the cup, and (d) a slot formed in the wall, with theslot having a first extension limit and a second extension limit. Arotatable plug is disposed in the cup, with the rotatable plug having aplug bore and the rotatable plug being sized to fit snugly in the cup. Aspout in incorporated, with the spout having a discharge passage that isin fluid communication with the plug bore. The spout is attached to therotatable plug through the slot, and the spout is rotatable between anextended position adjacent the first extension limit of the slot to anunextended position adjacent the second extension limit of the slot, andthe position of the spout adjacent the second extension limit of theslot is downwardly directed to the unextended position. The socket boreand the plug bore are in fluid communication when the spout ispositioned adjacent the first extension limit of the slot and the socketbore and the plug bore are out of fluid communication when the spout ispositioned adjacent the second extension limit of the slot.

Another embodiment provides faucet assembly for installation on asubstantially vertical surface, where the faucet assembly has a sockethaving (a) a wall, (b) a cup formed at least in part by the wall, (c) asocket inlet bore having a first end configured for attachment to awater source and a second end that terminates in the cup, and (d) a slotformed in the wall, with the slot having a first extension limit and asecond extension limit. A rotatable plug is disposed in the cup, withthe rotatable plug having a plug bore and the rotatable plug being sizedto fit snugly in the cup and to rotate smoothly in the cup. A spout inalso included, with the spout having a discharge passage that is influid communication with the plug bore. The spout is attached to therotatable plug through the slot, and the spout is smoothly rotatablebetween an extended position adjacent the first extension limit of theslot to an unextended position adjacent the second extension limit ofthe slot, and the position of the spout adjacent the second extensionlimit of the slot is downwardly directed to the unextended position. Thesocket bore and the plug bore are in fluid communication when the spoutis positioned adjacent the first extension limit of the slot.

Yet another embodiment provides faucet assembly for installation on asubstantially vertical surface, where the faucet assembly includes asocket having (a) a wall, (b) a cup formed at least in part by the wall,(c) a socket inlet bore having a first end configured for attachment toa water source and a second end that terminates in the cup, and (d) aslot formed in the wall, the slot having a first extension limit and asecond extension limit. A rotatable plug disposed in the cup, with therotatable plug having a plug bore and the rotatable plug being sized tofit snugly in the cup. A spout is also provided, with the spout having adischarge passage that is in fluid communication with the plug bore. Thespout is attached to the rotatable plug through the slot, and the spoutis rotatable between an extended position adjacent the first extensionlimit of the slot to an extended position adjacent the second extensionlimit of the slot, and the spout is rotatable to a position that is on asubstantially horizontal plane that is orthogonal to the substantiallyvertical mounting surface, and the position of the spout adjacent thesecond extension limit of the slot is downwardly directed to theunextended position. Further, the socket bore and the plug bore are influid communication when the spout is positioned adjacent the firstextension limit of the slot. A nozzle is provided, where the nozzle isin flow communication with the discharge passage, wherein the nozzle isdirected substantially vertically downward when the spout on thesubstantially horizontal plane that is orthogonal to the substantiallyvertical mounting surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further advantages of the invention are apparent by reference to thedetailed description in conjunction with the figures, wherein elementsare not to scale so as to more clearly show the details, wherein likereference numbers indicate like elements throughout the several views,and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a somewhat schematic top view of a faucet assembly accordingto the invention.

FIG. 2 is a somewhat schematic sectional side view of the faucetassembly of FIG. 1, through section A-A of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is somewhat schematic sectional side view of the faucet assemblyof FIG. 1, with the spout depicted in a downward position.

FIG. 4 is a somewhat schematic sectional side view of another faucetassembly according to the invention.

FIG. 5 is somewhat schematic sectional side view of another faucetassembly according to the invention.

FIG. 6 is a somewhat schematic top view of a faucet assembly accordingto the invention.

FIG. 7 is a somewhat schematic sectional side view of the faucetassembly of FIG. 6, through section B-B of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a somewhat schematic side view of another faucet assemblyaccording to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed generally toward plumbing fixtures andmore specifically toward bathtub, shower, and basin faucets. Variousembodiments provide a faucet assembly for installation with a bathtub,shower or washing basin system. The most preferred embodiments addresssafety concerns related to a person falling on the protruding spout bypermitting the bathtub spout to rotate away from the faller's trajectorywhen the spout is impacted by the faller.

Some embodiments also incorporate the utility of a tub/shower divertervalve so that water flows into the tub or basin when the spout is in oneoperating position (typically perpendicular to the wall). Then, byrotating the spout to a second operating position (preferably downwardand parallel to the wall), water is diverted to the shower head. In themost preferred embodiments, this is accomplished by use of a ball jointinstalled in the faucet assembly between the water pipe connection andthe spout. This ball joint permits access to the water line and allowswater to flow through the spout when the spout is positionedperpendicular to the wall. When the spout is rotated, preferablyapproximately ninety degrees downward, water is diverted from the spoutto the shower head. In alternate embodiments the diverter may beactivated by rotating the spout in other directions such as up, left, orright.

While the preferred embodiment is best applicable to dual use bathtubswith shower heads, the spout may also be used with bathtubs or basinswhich have no shower head. The protruding spout is still dangerous tofalling bathers, particularly small children. Therefore the rotatingaspect of the device is still attractive as a safety feature. In suchembodiments, the assembly may still be configured to shut off the flowof water to the bathtub completely when rotated approximately ninetydegrees from its standard operating position.

Further understanding of various embodiments may be discerned by areview of the figures. FIG. 1 is a somewhat schematic top view of afaucet assembly 10 installed on a substantially vertical surface 11.FIG. 2 is a somewhat schematic side view of faucet assembly 10 observedat section A-A denoted in FIG. 1. Faucet assembly 10 incorporates aspout 12 that comprises discharge tube 14 and a ball 16. In FIG. 1 andFIG. 2, spout 12 is depicted in an “extended position,” meaning that thespout is extended outward from substantially vertical surface 11. FIG. 3presents a somewhat schematic side view of faucet assembly 10 depictedin an alternate “unextended position.” That is, in FIG. 3 spout 12 hasbeen rotated to a position that is adjacent substantially verticalsurface 11. In this side view, the position of spout 12 is shown to bedownwardly directed to this unextended position.

Discharge tube 14 and ball 16 may be formed from unitary material stock,or may be fabricated separately and joined together as illustrated. Areceptacle 18 is assembled with a receptacle cover 20. Receptacle 18 maybe joined with receptacle cover 20 by such means as adhesives, threadedconnections, pressure fitting or similar means that form a substantiallyleak-tight connection between receptacle 18 and receptacle cover 20. Thegeometry of receptacle 18 and receptacle cover 20 form a receptacle wall22. A receptacle cup 24 is formed in part by receptacle wall 22 and inremainder by receptacle 18. Receptacle cup 24 is substantiallyspherical, and has plurality of geometric axes of rotation that passthrough its center. Each axis of rotation is an imaginary line aroundwhich a hemi-circular arc of receptacle cup 24 is rotated to define thesurface of the receptacle cup 24. Each axis of rotation passes throughthe geometric center of the receptacle cup 24.

A discharge passage 28 is provided in discharge tube 14, and a nozzle 30directs fluid flow out of spout 12 in a direction substantiallyvertically downward when spout 12 is horizontal. A ball bore 32 passesthrough ball 16, and ball bore 32 is substantially axially aligned withdischarge passage 28. Receptacle 18 comprises a receptacle inlet bore34. Receptacle inlet bore 34 includes threading 36 at a first end andthe second end of receptacle inlet bore 34 terminates in receptacle cup24. The threading 36 is configured to conform to water pipe threadstandards so that faucet assembly 10 may be connected to a pressurizedwater source (not shown). In alternative embodiments, threading 36 maybe replaced with a configuration suitable for brazing, clamping, orother means of attachment to a water supply line.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 a slot 38 is cut into wall 22,and spout 12 passes through slot 38. Slot 38 has a slot first extensionlimit 40 and a slot second extension limit 42. Slot first extensionlimit 40 and slot second extension limit 42 conform to the cross sectionof discharge tube 14 the geometric centers of slot first extension limit40 and slot second extension limit 42 define the major axis of slot 38.In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the major axis of slot 38falls on section line A-A of FIG. 1. The major axis of slot 38 and thecenter of the receptacle inlet bore 34 establish a single rotationalplane through the center of receptacle cup 24 that is perpendicular to ageometric axis of rotation of receptacle cup 24. The rotational planepasses through the second end of the receptacle inlet bore 34 and therotational plane passes through the major axis of the slot 38. Ball 16and spout 12 are centered on the rotational plane so that spout 12 mayrotate through a range of travel in slot 38 between the positiondepicted in FIG. 2 that is adjacent the slot first extension limit 40,to the position depicted in FIG. 3 that is adjacent slot secondextension limit 42.

As depicted in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, an O-ring seal 44 is positionedbetween ball 16 and receptacle 18, around receptacle inlet bore 34 andball bore 32. The geometry of receptacle cup 24 may be configured topush ball 16 against O-ring seal 44, or in some embodiments a spring maybe installed in receptacle cup 4 opposite O-ring seal 44 to providepressure on O-ring 44 between ball 16 and receptacle 18 to ensure aleak-tight seal.

Preferably, ball 16 is sized to fit snugly within receptacle cup 24, butwith sufficient clearance to permit spout 12 to move within its range oftravel, and to permit ball 16 to rotate within receptacle cup 24, withminimal manual forces. Most preferably, ball 16 rotates smoothly withinreceptacle cup 24. “Smoothly” is a feature wherein the force required tomove the spout 12 between any two positions in the range of travel ofspout 12 is substantially the same as the force required to move spout12 between any other two positions in the range of travel of spout 12.However, in some embodiments a certain amount of “sticktion” (i.e.,extra force needed at the start of travel) may exist naturally, and itmay establish a tendency for the spout 12 to remain at any location inits range of travel. In some embodiments “sticktion” may be deliberatelyincorporated in order to induce the spout to remain at one or moredesignated locations in its range of travel. Such “sticktion” may beadded deliberately by incorporating spring loaded detents or similarmechanisms which cause the spout 12 to snap set at preferred locations,such as “up” and “down.” Preferably, the apparatus should be designed sothat a maximum torque of no more than approximately three to fivefoot-pounds (approximately a few tenths kilogram-meters) of torque isrequired to move the spout 12 from a given location to another locationwithin the spout's range of travel, including torque necessary toovercome “sticktion” resistance and resistance from O-ring seal 44.

Note that when, as depicted in FIG. 2, spout 12 is positioned adjacentthe first extension limit 40 of the slot 38, the receptacle inlet bore34 and the ball bore 32 and the discharge passage 18 are in fluidcommunication. The term “in fluid communication” refers to aconfiguration of two or more passageways that are structured andpositioned so that a fluid may be moved from the start of the first tothe end of the last passageway designated as being in fluidcommunication. That is, when spout 12 is positioned as shown in FIG. 2,the water supply is turned “on” by using an appropriate fluid pressuredifferential from the start of the first passageway (receptacle inletbore 34) to the end of last passageway (discharge passage 18).

When, as depicted in FIG. 3, spout 12 is positioned adjacent the secondextension limit 42 of the slot 38, the receptacle bore 34 and the ballbore 32 and the discharge tube 14 are out of fluid communication. Theterm “out of fluid communication” refers to a configuration of two ormore passageways that obstructed in some manner so that a fluid may notbe moved from the start of the first to the end of the last passagewaydesignated as being in fluid communication. That is, when spout 12 isrotated approximately ninety degrees clockwise from the position shownin FIG. 2 to the position shown in FIG. 3, the water supply is turned“off” because no reasonable fluid pressure differential across the startof the first passageway to the end of last passageway causes water toflow from the start of the first passageway (receptacle inlet bore 34)to the end of last passageway (discharge passage 18).

As used herein, the terms “appropriate” and “reasonable” pressure areused herein to describe a water pressure that is high enough toestablish and maintain water flow though the various passagewaysconfigured to conduct water, and that is low enough to avoid blowing outseals or bypassing surfaces that are designed to block the flow ofwater.

In some embodiments a faucet assembly may be mounted so that the spoutis moved from positions that are not horizontal vs. vertical in order tomove the spout from a position adjacent a slot first extension limit toa position adjacent a slot second extension limit. An example isillustrated by viewing FIG. 1 as a side view of faucet assembly 10 andFIG. 2 as a top sectional view of faucet assembly 10. Note that in suchembodiments, the nozzle is typically rotated ninety degrees to verticalso that fluid discharge is always downward regardless of whether thespout is at a position adjacent a slot first extension limit, or at aposition adjacent a slot second extension limit, or anywhere in between.In such an embodiment the spout may be moved from a horizontal positionwhere the receptacle bore and the ball bore and the discharge tube arein fluid communication to another horizontal position where thereceptacle bore and the ball bore and the discharge tube are out offluid communication. In such embodiments, the movement of spout stilloccurs from a position that is adjacent the first extension limit of theslot (where the receptacle bore and the ball bore and the discharge tubeare in fluid communication), to a position that is adjacent the secondextension limit of the slot (where the receptacle bore and the ball boreand the discharge tube are out of fluid communication). However, in suchembodiments, the movement of the spout is entirely in a horizontalplane. Some embodiments may include both horizontal and verticalmovement of the spout. But, in the most preferred embodiments theelevation of the spout at the second extension limit of the slot is nothigher than the elevation of the spout at the first extension limit ofthe slot. That is, the position of the spout adjacent the slot secondelevation limit is “unelevated” from the position of the spout adjacentthe slot first elevation limit. The reason that configuration is mostpreferred is that if the elevation of the spout adjacent the slot secondextension limit is higher than the elevation of the spout adjacent thefirst slot extension limit, the safety aspect of the spout moving awaywhen impacted by a falling person is significantly impaired.

FIG. 4 illustrates an aspect of some embodiments. A side view of faucetassembly 50 is illustrated, installed on substantially vertical surface51. Faucet assembly 50 has a spout 52 that is comprised of a dischargetube 54 and a ball 56. Spout 52 is shown upwardly directed in anextended position, at an inclination angle 53 of about 25°. Theinclination angle is referenced from substantially horizontal plane 55that is orthogonal to substantially vertical surface 51.

Discharge tube 54 and ball 56 may be fabricated from a single piece ofmaterial stock, or may be fabricated separately and joined by welding,brazing, or other bonding mechanisms, or discharge tube 54 and ball 56may be joined together by mating threads. A receptacle 58 is assembledwith a receptacle cover 60. Receptacle cover and receptacle 58 form awall 62. Wall 62 and receptacle 58 establish a receptacle cup 64. In theembodiment shown, receptacle cup 64 is substantially spherical, and hasa plurality of axes of rotation each passing through the geometriccenter of receptacle cup 64. Ball 56 is sized to fit snugly but easilymanually rotatable within receptacle cup 64, including the forcenecessary to overcome resistance to rotation due to o-ring seal 84.

A discharge passage 68 and a nozzle 70 are formed in discharge tube 54.A ball bore 72 formed in ball 56 is in fluid communication withdischarge passage 68. A receptacle inlet bore 74 is formed in receptacle58, and receptacle inlet bore 74 has a threaded section 76 forattachment of faucet assembly 50 to a water supply line (not shown).

A slot 78 is formed in wall 62. The minor axis (width) of slot 78 issized to permit spout 52 to fit loosely within slot 78. Slot 78 has aslot first extension limit 80 and a slot second extension limit 82. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 4 first extension limit 80 and second extensionlimit 82 are configured to permit spout 52 to be positioned over a rangeof travel that exceed ninety degrees. A bore extension 86 has beenformed in ball 56 to ensure fluid communication between receptacle inletbore 74 and ball bore 72 when spout 52 is positioned as illustrated inFIG. 4.

In embodiments of faucet assembly 50 as depicted in FIG. 4, slot firstextension limit 80 may be positioned to permit spout 52 to rotate onehundred and eighty degrees (or even at a reflex angle) from slot secondextension limit 82. However, in embodiments of faucet assembly 50 whereslot 78 is positioned to be vertical (as plumb), it is preferred thatslot first extension limit 80 not permit spout 52 to be positioned at aninclination angle of more than approximately forty-five degrees abovehorizontal. If spout 52 is positioned at an inclination angle of morethan approximately forty-five degrees above horizontal it may not rotatevertically downward if impacted by a person falling on or impactingspout 52.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of an embodiment wherein movement of aspout causes a diversion of water from the spout to a second passageway.Faucet assembly 90 is installed on a substantially vertical surface 91,and has a spout 92 that comprises a discharge tube 94 and a ball 96. InFIG. 5, spout 92 is depicted in a downwardly directed unextendedposition, A receptacle 98 is provided which is assembled with receptaclecover 100. Receptacle cover 100 and a portion of receptacle 98 establisha receptacle wall 102, and which together with receptacle 98 form asubstantially spherical receptacle cup 104. Ball 96 fits snugly intoreceptacle cup 104. A discharge passage 108 and a nozzle 110 are formedin spout 92.

Ball bore 112 is formed in ball 56 and is in fluid communication withdischarge passage 108. Receptacle inlet bore 114 in receptacle 98 isfitted with inlet threading 116 for attachment to a water supply line.

A slot 118 is formed in receptacle wall 102; slot 118 has a first slotextension limit 120 and a second slot extension limit 122. When spout 92is rotated approximately ninety degrees counterclockwise from theposition depicted in FIG. 5, receptacle inlet bore 114 and ball bore 112are in fluid communication. However, in the position illustrated in FIG.5, ball bore 112 is out of fluid communication with receptacle inletbore 116 due to the configuration of ball 96 and inlet seal 132 anddiversion seal 134. That is, water under reasonable pressure inreceptacle inlet bore 114 cannot reach and flow through ball bore 112when spout 92 is in the position illustrated in FIG. 5.

Ball 96 also includes diversion passage 126, and receptacle 98 includesreceptacle outlet bore 128. Outlet threading 120 is formed as shown inoutlet bore 128. Both inlet threading 116 and outlet threading 120 maybe replaced with other elements for attaching faucet assembly 90 towater lines. When spout 92 is positioned as illustrated in FIG. 5,receptacle inlet bore 114, diversion passage 126 and receptacle outletbore 128 are in fluid communication. That is, water under reasonablepressure in receptacle inlet bore 114 will flow through receptacle inletbore 114 through diversion passage 126 and out receptacle outlet bore130 when spout 92 is in the position illustrated in FIG. 5.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is useful in applications where it isdesirable to divert water flow from one output alternative to anotheroutput alternative. For example, the configuration of FIG. 5 may be usedto provide water to a tub or basis when spout 92 is rotatedapproximately ninety degrees counterclockwise, and use to provide waterto a shower head (connected through outlet threading 130) when spout 92is positioned as illustrated in FIG. 5.

FIGS. 6 illustrates a top view and 7 illustrates a side view of anotherembodiment. Faucet assembly 140 is installed on substantially verticalsurface 141, and has a spout tube 142 that is attached to cylinder 146.As the name suggests, cylinder 146 is cylindrical, and cylinder 146 hasa single axis of rotation that is an imaginary line through the centersof the circles that form the end of the cylinder. Cylinder 146 is fittedsnugly within drum 148. Drum 148 is also cylindrical and has a singleaxis of rotation that is congruent with the axis of rotation of cylinder146. A portion of drum 148 forms drum wall 152, and drum cup 154 isformed in part by drum wall 152 and drum 148.

A discharge passage 158 and nozzle 160 are formed in spout tube 142. Acylinder bore 162 is formed in cylinder 146 and a drum inlet bore 162 isformed in drum 148. Water supply pipe threading 166 is provided for druminlet bore 164. A slot 168 is provided in drum wall 152, and slot 168has a slot first extension limit 170 and a second slot extension limit172. The centers of slot first extension limit 170 and second slotextension limit 172 define the major axis of slot 168. Spout tube 142has external spout threads 174 that mate with internal cylinder threads176 formed in cylinder bore 162. An axial seal 178 is formed by anO-ring positioned in a circular slot formed in the section of drum cup154 around drum inlet bore 148. First axial radial seal 180 and secondradial seal 182 are positioned in circular grooves cut into cylinder146. In preferred embodiments, faucet assembly 140 is assembled by (1)positioning axial seal 178 in drum cup 154, (2) positioning first radialseal 180 and second radial seal 182 on cylinder 146, (3) sliding drum136 into drum cup 154 so that cylinder threads 176 are accessiblethrough slot 176, and (4) attaching spout tube 142 to cylinder 146 byscrewing pout threads 174 into cylinder threads 176.

The “balls” and “cylinder” described previously in various embodimentsare examples of “plugs” according to the invention. The “receptacles”and “drums” described previously in various embodiments are examples of“sockets” according to the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment where the movement of the spout doesnot turn off the water supply from the faucet assembly. Faucet assembly190 is mounted on substantially vertical surface 191 and has a spouttube 192 that is attached to plug 196. Socket 198 has a socket wall 202that, together with a portion of socket 198, forms a socket cup 204. Adischarge passage and nozzle 210 are formed in spout tube 192.

A plug bore 212 is formed in plug 196 and a socket inlet bore 214 isformed in socket 198. Attachment threading 216 is provided at the end ofsocket inlet bore 214. A slot 218 is formed in socket wall 202. Slot 218has a slot first extension limit 220 and a slot second extension limit222. Spout threads 224 on spout tube 192 are used to attach spout tube192 to plug threads 226 in plug 196. An axial seal 228 is provided asshown between socket cup 204 and plug 196. When spout tube 192 is in theposition illustrated in FIG. 8, socket inlet bore 214, plug bore 212,discharge passage 208, and nozzle 210 are in fluid communication. A boreexpansion 236 is provided in plug 196 so that when spout tube 192 isrotated approximately ninety degrees clockwise from the positionillustrated in FIG. 8, socket inlet bore 214, plug bore 212, dischargepassage 208, and nozzle 210 are still in fluid communication. Thus, inthe embodiment of FIG. 8, the rotation of spout tube 192 provides suchfunctions as diverting the water stream for convenience and deflectingthe spout as it is hit by a falling person to avoid injury, withoutturning off the water.

The foregoing description of preferred embodiments for this inventionhave been presented for purposes of illustration and description. Theyare not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possiblein light of the above teachings. The embodiments are chosen anddescribed in an effort to provide the best illustrations of theprinciples of the invention and its practical application, and tothereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the inventionin various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited tothe particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variationsare within the scope of the invention as determined by the appendedclaims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they arefairly, legally, and equitably entitled.

1. A faucet assembly for installation on a substantially verticalsurface, comprising: a socket having (a) a wall, (b) a cup formed atleast in part by the wall, (c) a socket inlet bore having a first endconfigured for attachment to a water source and a second end thatterminates in the cup, and (d) a slot formed in the wall, the slothaving a first extension limit and a second extension limit; a rotatableplug disposed in the cup, the rotatable plug having a plug bore and therotatable plug being sized to fit snugly in the cup; a spout having adischarge passage that is in fluid communication with the plug bore,wherein the spout is attached to the rotatable plug through the slot andwherein the spout is rotatable between an extended position adjacent thefirst extension limit of the slot to an unextended position adjacent thesecond extension limit of the slot and wherein the position of the spoutadjacent the second extension limit of the slot is downwardly directedto the unextended position; wherein the socket bore and the plug boreare in fluid communication when the spout is positioned adjacent thefirst extension limit of the slot and wherein the socket bore and theplug bore are out of fluid communication when the spout is positionedadjacent the second extension limit of the slot.
 2. The faucet assemblyof claim 1 wherein the socket further comprises a socket outlet bore andthe rotatable plug further comprises a diversion passage, wherein whenthe spout is positioned adjacent the second extension limit of the slot,the socket inlet bore and the socket outlet bore are in fluidcommunication through the diversion passage.
 3. The faucet assembly ofclaim 2 wherein the first extension limit of the slot is positionedwhereby the spout is rotatable to an extended position having aninclination angle not more than approximately forty-five degrees above asubstantially horizontal plane orthogonal to the substantially verticalsurface.
 4. The faucet assembly of claim 1 wherein the first extensionlimit of the slot is positioned whereby the spout is rotatable to anextended position having an inclination angle not more thanapproximately forty-five degrees above a substantially horizontal planeorthogonal to the substantially vertical surface.
 5. A faucet assemblyfor installation on a substantially vertical surface, comprising: asocket having (a) a wall, (b) a cup formed at least in part by the wall,(c) a socket inlet bore having a first end configured for attachment toa water source and a second end that terminates in the cup, and (d) aslot formed in the wall, the slot having a first extension limit and asecond extension limit; a rotatable plug disposed in the cup, therotatable plug having a plug bore and the rotatable plug being sized tofit snugly in the cup and to rotate smoothly in the cup; a spout havinga discharge passage that is in fluid communication with the plug bore,wherein the spout is attached to the rotatable plug through the slot andwherein the spout is smoothly rotatable between an extended positionadjacent the first extension limit of the slot to an unextended positionadjacent the second extension limit of the slot and wherein the positionof the spout adjacent the second extension limit of the slot isdownwardly directed to the unextended position; wherein the socket boreand the plug bore are in fluid communication when the spout ispositioned adjacent the first extension limit of the slot.
 6. The faucetassembly of claim 5 wherein the socket further comprises a socket outletbore and the rotatable plug further comprises a diversion passage,wherein when the spout is positioned adjacent the second extension limitof the slot, the socket inlet bore and the socket outlet bore are influid communication through the diversion passage.
 7. The faucetassembly of claim 6 wherein the first extension limit of the slot ispositioned whereby the spout is rotatable to an extended position havingan inclination angle not more than approximately forty-five degreesabove a substantially horizontal plane orthogonal to the substantiallyvertical surface.
 8. The faucet assembly of claim 7 wherein the firstextension limit of the slot is positioned whereby the spout is rotatableto an extended position having an inclination angle not more thanapproximately forty-five degrees above a substantially horizontal planeorthogonal to the substantially vertical surface.
 9. The faucet assemblyof claim 8 wherein the socket bore and the plug bore are out of fluidcommunication when the spout is positioned adjacent the second extensionlimit of the slot.
 10. The faucet assembly of claim 5 wherein the firstextension limit of the slot is positioned whereby the spout is rotatableto an extended position having an inclination angle not more thanapproximately forty-five degrees above a substantially horizontal planeorthogonal to the substantially vertical surface.
 11. The faucetassembly of claim 10 wherein the socket bore and the plug bore are outof fluid communication when the spout is positioned adjacent the secondextension limit of the slot.
 12. The faucet assembly of claim 5 whereinthe socket bore and the plug bore are out of fluid communication whenthe spout is positioned adjacent the second extension limit of the slot.13. A faucet assembly for installation on a substantially verticalsurface, comprising: a socket having (a) a wall, (b) a cup formed atleast in part by the wall, (c) a socket inlet bore having a first endconfigured for attachment to a water source and a second end thatterminates in the cup, and (d) a slot formed in the wall, the slothaving a first extension limit and a second extension limit; a rotatableplug disposed in the cup, the rotatable plug having a plug bore and therotatable plug being sized to fit snugly in the cup; a spout having adischarge passage that is in fluid communication with the plug bore,wherein the spout is attached to the rotatable plug through the slot andwherein the spout is rotatable between an extended position adjacent thefirst extension limit of the slot to an extended position adjacent thesecond extension limit of the slot and wherein the spout is rotatable toa position that is on a substantially horizontal plane that isorthogonal to the substantially vertical mounting surface and whereinthe position of the spout adjacent the second extension limit of theslot is downwardly directed to the unextended position and wherein thesocket bore and the plug bore are in fluid communication when the spoutis positioned adjacent the first extension limit of the slot; and anozzle in flow communication with the discharge passage, wherein thenozzle is directed substantially vertically downward when the spout onthe substantially horizontal plane that is orthogonal to thesubstantially vertical mounting surface.
 14. The faucet assembly ofclaim 13 wherein the socket bore and the plug bore are out of fluidcommunication when the spout is positioned adjacent the second extensionlimit of the slot.
 15. The faucet assembly of claim 14 wherein thesocket further comprises a socket outlet bore and the rotatable plugfurther comprises a diversion passage, wherein when the spout ispositioned adjacent the second extension limit of the slot, the socketinlet bore and the socket outlet bore are in fluid communication throughthe diversion passage.
 16. A faucet assembly for installation on asubstantially vertical surface, comprising: a socket having (a) a wall,(b) a cup formed at least in part by the wall, (c) a socket inlet borehaving a first end configured for attachment to a water source and asecond end that terminates in the cup, (d) a slot formed in the wall,the slot having a first extension limit and a second extension limit; arotatable plug disposed in the cup, the rotatable plug having a plugbore and the rotatable plug being sized to fit snugly in the cup; aspout having a discharge passage that is in communication with the plugbore, wherein the spout is attached to the plug through the slot andwherein the spout is rotatable between a position adjacent the firstextension limit of the slot to a position adjacent the second extensionlimit of the slot and wherein the position of the spout adjacent thesecond extension limit of the slot is downwardly directed to theunextended position; wherein the socket bore and the plug bore and thedischarge passage are in fluid communication when the spout ispositioned adjacent the first extension limit of the slot; and whereinthe torque required to move the spout between any two locations within arange from (a) a position adjacent the first extension limit of the slotto (b) a position adjacent the second extension limit of the slot is notmore than approximately five foot-pounds of torque.
 17. The faucetassembly of claim 16 wherein the socket further comprises a socketoutlet bore and the rotatable plug further comprises a diversion passagewherein when the spout is positioned adjacent the second extension limitof the slot, the socket inlet bore and the socket outlet bore are influid communication through the diversion passage.
 18. The faucetassembly of claim 16 wherein the first extension limit of the slot ispositioned whereby the spout is rotatable to an extended position havingan inclination angle not more than approximately forty-five degreesabove a substantially horizontal plane orthogonal to the substantiallyvertical surface.
 19. A faucet assembly for installation on asubstantially vertical surface, comprising: a socket having (a) a wall,(b) a cup formed at least in part by the wall, (c) a socket inlet borehaving a first end configured for attachment to a water source and asecond end that terminates in the cup, and (d) a slot formed in thewall, the slot having a first extension limit and a second extensionlimit; a rotatable plug disposed in the cup, the rotatable plug having aplug bore and the rotatable plug being sized to fit snugly in the cup; aspout having a discharge passage that is in fluid communication with theplug bore, wherein the spout is attached to the rotatable plug throughthe slot and wherein the spout is rotatable between an extended positionadjacent the first extension limit of the slot to an unextended positionadjacent the second extension limit of the slot and wherein at anyrotatable position the spout has an inclination angle is not above asubstantially horizontal plane orthogonal to the substantially verticalsurface; wherein the socket bore and the plug bore are in fluidcommunication when the spout is positioned adjacent the first extensionlimit of the slot and wherein the socket bore and the plug bore are outof fluid communication when the spout is positioned adjacent the secondextension limit of the slot.
 20. The faucet assembly of claim 19 whereinthe socket further comprises a socket outlet bore and the rotatable plugfurther comprises a diversion passage wherein when the spout ispositioned adjacent the second extension limit of the slot, the socketinlet bore and the socket outlet bore are in fluid communication throughthe diversion passage.